Played in warm and humid conditions on Saturday, Apr 4, the event showcased the continued growth of the touch rugby community in Phuket.
The tournament opened with a round-robin group stage, where early results determined progression into the knockout rounds. Teams then advanced into a tiered structure of Cup, Plate, and Bowl competitions, each featuring semi-finals and finals to decide standings. While all three tiers were scheduled, the Bowl competition was ultimately not contested, with attention focused on the Cup and Plate finals.
The Cup competition provided a fitting conclusion to the day, with Bangkok Southerners crowned champions after overcoming The Hickey’s, the previous tournament winners, 3–1 in a competitive final. Their tactical discipline stood out, particularly in their effective use of substitutions, allowing them to maintain control and consistency throughout the match.
In the Plate competition, Pattaya Panthers secured the title with a narrow 1–0 victory over Hat Yai Pretty Mammoth in one of the closest matches of the tournament. The final was decided by a drop-off – an extra-time format where teams play with reduced numbers until a winning try is scored – with both sides showing resilience and composure throughout.
The match was well managed by official Chris Hallewell, ensuring a fair and controlled contest, while individual performances were also recognised, with awards presented for Male Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Female MVP. Rex Yi was named the former following a series of influential performances, consistently impacting games and contributing to his team’s success, while Gracie Layard earned the Female MVP award after a composed and effective tournament, delivering key performances at important moments.
Additional honours included the Golden Boy and Golden Girl awards for outstanding junior players aged 14–16, along with the Super Senior award for players aged 45 and above.
Alongside the on-field competition, the tournament also supported a wider cause, helping to raise awareness for the Asia Centre Foundation (ACF), reinforcing the positive role sport can play in bringing communities together while supporting meaningful local initiatives.
Overall, the tournament was a strong success, combining competitive rugby with a positive and inclusive atmosphere. With growing participation and increasing interest, attention is already turning to the future, with ambitions to welcome international teams from across Asia and Australia. This next phase aims to elevate competition while positioning Phuket as an emerging hub for touch rugby, supporting the continued development of the sport in Thailand and the wider region.
The event was made possible through the support of its sponsors, led by Nomad Beach Club, alongside Go Fresh Fuel, Soho Pool Club, Simba Sea Trips, Delta55 Gym, Phuket Scaffolding Solutions, Tour de Phuket Hotel and Bangtao Boat Club, with additional support from the ACG, The Litter Club Network, DOPA Sauna and Wellness Club, Physio First Phuket and Radio Red Phuket.
For updates, highlights, and future events, follow Phuket Touch Rugby on Instagram and Facebook (@phukettouchrugby), and watch full match coverage on YouTube via Phuket Mixed Touch Rugby.